This Cream Cheese Chicken is a tasty meal everyone loves! It’s made with juicy chicken, creamy cream cheese, and a sprinkle of herbs for a yummy taste. Perfect for a cozy dinner!
I enjoy serving it with rice or pasta to soak up all that creamy goodness. Trust me, you’ll be going back for seconds! Who can resist comfort food like this? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish as they stay moist and cook quickly. You can also use thighs if you prefer a richer flavor. Just adjust the cooking time slightly since thighs may take a bit longer.
Cream Cheese: This is the star of the dish! For a lighter option, consider using low-fat cream cheese or a dairy-free alternative, like cashew cream. Both will still give you that creamy feel.
Sour Cream: This helps add tang to the dish. If you don’t have sour cream, Greek yogurt works well too! It adds creaminess and a bit of protein.
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds great flavor. If you’re in a pinch, use garlic powder (1/4 teaspoon per clove) instead, but fresh is definitely better!
Cheese: I suggest mozzarella for a gooey topping, but Parmesan gives a nice sharp contrast. You can substitute with any cheese you like, such as cheddar or even a dairy-free cheese if needed.
How Do I Get My Chicken to Stay Juicy and Tender?
Keeping chicken juicy can be tricky, but here are some tips to help you out:
- Use a quick sear in an oven-safe skillet to lock in moisture before baking. This gives it great flavor and texture!
- Don’t overcook the chicken; use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Aim for 165°F (75°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked without drying out.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking. This allows the juices to redistribute and keeps your chicken moist and tender.
Cream Cheese Chicken Recipe for Creamy Dinner Delight
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (or a mix of basil, oregano, and thyme)
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley or chives, chopped, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for preparation and around 25-30 minutes for cooking. So, you’ll be enjoying your creamy dinner delight in about 40 minutes total. Perfect for a weekday meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure it’s nice and hot for cooking the chicken perfectly.
2. Season the Chicken:
Take your chicken breasts and season them with salt and black pepper on both sides. This will add flavor to the chicken right from the start!
3. Sear the Chicken:
In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the seasoned chicken breasts. Sear each side for about 4-5 minutes until they’re beautifully golden brown. Then, take the chicken out of the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
4. Prepare the Cream Sauce:
Next, lower the heat to medium in the same skillet. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté it for about 30 seconds until you smell that delicious aroma. Now, add the softened cream cheese, sour cream, chicken broth, and dried Italian herbs. Stir everything together until the cream cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
5. Combine and Bake:
Return the chicken breasts back to the skillet and spoon some of that creamy sauce over the top of each piece. Sprinkle the shredded cheese on top of the chicken for an extra cheesy goodness. Now it’s time for the oven!
6. Baking Time:
Carefully place the skillet in the preheated oven and let it bake for 20-25 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
7. Garnish and Serve:
Once baked, take the skillet out of the oven and let it cool for a moment. Garnish your creamy chicken with freshly chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color. Serve it hot alongside your favorite side dishes like rice, pasta, or steamed veggies.
Enjoy your creamy, delicious dinner delight! It’s sure to impress and satisfy everyone at the table!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s best to thaw it completely first. Thaw chicken in the refrigerator overnight or in a sealed bag submerged in cold water for quicker results. Ensure it’s pat dry before seasoning and cooking!
What Can I Substitute for Cream Cheese?
If you’re looking for alternatives to cream cheese, you can use Greek yogurt, ricotta, or a dairy-free cream cheese substitute. Just keep in mind that these will adjust the flavor and consistency a bit, but they’ll still yield a creamy sauce!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stove over low heat until heated through. You may want to add a splash of chicken broth or cream to adjust the consistency when reheating.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce and sear the chicken in advance, then assemble and refrigerate. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve—add an extra few minutes to the baking time if it’s chilled.
